For Teachers
General Information
Instructors have the option of leading a course for one, two, three or all four weeks of the Northwest Talent Academy. Instructors can also choose between a half day and full day class. Teachers are asked to come up with creative, high-level programming that will offer students the chance to hone in on a certain subject for a four-day stretch.
For all pertinent teacher information, please view the NWTA Teacher Brochure
Northwest Talent Academy 2024 Dates:
June 17, 18, 20, 21 (no classes June 19)
June 24 - 27
July 8 - 11
July 15 - 18
Course Ideas
Course Ideas & Information
Northwest Talent Academy is looking for courses that engage, fascinate, inspire, and drive our high potential learners to grow! Courses can be creative and unique, provided they tie back to the basic tenants of NWTA.
Northwest Talent Academy Courses are expected to meet or involve the majority of these criteria:
- Cross Discipline
- Theme-Based
- Creative Thinking
- Critical Thinking
- Rigorous
- Collaborative
- Hands-On
- High Level Thinking Skills.
A list of example classes and course ideas can be found HERE.
Sign Up to Teach!
Want to Teach with NWTA?
Do you have an idea for a creative, engaging class? Are you passionate about helping our high potential learners?
Proposals are open for teachers to submit ideas from Mid October until Early December. During this time, you will be able to click the link and submit your proposal.
Teacher FAQs
Do I get paid to attend the May meeting?
Compensation for attendance of the May meeting is included in your stipend.
When will I find out if my class is going to run?
Class determination will be made mid April based on class registration.
When can I set up my room?
Classrooms will be open for set up the Friday prior to the start of the course, as well as beginning at 6 a.m. on the first day of the course.
What if I am sick?
You are required to find a sub and notify site director that you will be gone and who your sub is. **Your room should be ready for them to teach**
How did I find a sub?
We will have a list of pre approved subs or you can submit potential subs in advance for pre approval. (Subs must have a background check)
Who pays for my sub?
You are required to pay your substitute $25 per hour.
Can I co-teach a class?
YES - your pay will be split. We can answer specific questions on a case by case basis.
What am I expected to have prepared?
In the May meeting you will turn in a supply list and any materials you needed copied. These will be waiting for you when you come to teach.
What if my proposal needs to be changed?
When proposals are reviewed, we may ask for clarification or for changes to be made. You will be able to edit your proposal even after it is submitted.
I’ve already submitted my supply list, but now I need additional materials. What should I do?
Please email us and we will work on getting you what you need!
How will teachers be expected to communicate to students and families?
At the May meeting you will submit a Welcome Letter introducing yourself to your students. This will be sent out to all registered students in your class the week before it is to run. **Expectations for communication during the week of class will be set at the May meeting.
If I know a professional that would be interested in teaching, can they?
YES - feel free to reach out to professionals in your community. Have them submit a proposal!! All proposals will be considered.
Can I select my own assistant?
No.
Teacher Testimonials
"I had a fantastic experience teaching with NWTA last summer! The staff were helpful and supportive and the students were incredible. I had so much fun I am already thinking about designing an additional course to teach next summer!"
Rebecca Hoover
Music Teacher, Big Lake
"I had an awesome time teaching in the NWTA program last year. The kids were great and the experience was positive and beneficial for both the students and the teachers!"
Jared Hines
Middle School Teacher, Monticello
"This past summer was my first experience teaching art classes through NWTA. I was incredibly excited to create some fun sessions based on my own hobbies and background. It was a fantastic change of pace for me as I had normally taught summer school in my district. Not only does NWTA have a great reputation for supporting their teachers....the leadership is organized, thoughtful and allows teachers to be as innovative and creative with their planning as they want!"
I can't wait to do it again!
Marcy Beal
First Grade Teacher, Monticello
"Teaching at NWTA is a teacher's dream - a class full of articulate, curious learners who want to take your class. The weeks I spend at NWTA in the summer remind me of why I went into teaching in the first place. Plus, Jenine and Leanne are supportive and helpful and FUN!"
Julie Stella
Fourth Grade Teacher, Otsego
"I had the opportunity to teach NWTA courses last summer, and it was such an incredible experience! The teachers and staff were filled with positive energy, and the students were passionate and driven to learn. I could not have asked for a better experience; as soon as I left, I was already planning my return for the summer of 2024. I can hardly wait to get started!"
Remy Berning
First Grade Teacher, Monticello
"Teaching for NWTA was an awesome experience that exceeded all of my expectations. The students were fantastic, making the whole experience enjoyable and rewarding. The low-stress environment, coupled with the freedom to design my own course, made it both fulfilling and fun. I am looking forward to teaching again next summer."
Kelly Jurek
Sixth Grade English Language Arts Teacher, Big Lake
"I have been teaching for NWTA since its inception. I love working with gifted and talented students who are choosing to spend their summer learning! The program is extremely well-organized and allows for the creativity and extension that time rarely allows in the classroom. I'm proud to be teaching in a program that addresses this need for our GT students!"
Michelle Thompson
Sixth Grade Reading Teacher, Monticello